The Sanitation Department has urged city residents to think green this holiday season and provided instructions for proper disposal and recycling methods, including the collection schedule adjustments over the upcoming festive period, according to a recent announcement by Sanitation Commissioner Crystal Jacobs Shipman. City services paused on Wednesday, December 25, and will also pause on January 1 due to the Christmas and New Year's holidays, causing residents to set out their waste materials a day later than their usual schedule, except those with twice weekly pickups who will only receive one collection during these weeks.
Shipman highlighted the significance of the long-standing Christmas Tree Recycling Program, which commences on January 6 and concludes January 18. Residents are invited to drop off live Christmas trees at any of the six listed Sanitation Convenience Centers, open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., or at 13 additional locations on the two Saturdays within the program's duration. Shipman underlined, via the City of Philadelphia, "Christmas trees dropped off must be free of all decorations and untied," with trees donned in decor ineligible for recycling. This effort presents an opportunity to benefit the environment and reduce waste handling expenses significantly.
In a gesture towards sustainability, the department also listed several tips for repurposing Christmas trees, such as using pine limbs and needles for winter mulch or turning trees into backyard compost. Caution was advised against burning trees in fireplaces due to potential hazards. The reminder extends to check for more drop-off locations with local civic associations and to stay informed on holiday safety through the Philadelphia Fire Department's guidance.
